An ultra low power RFID transponder chip that operates from a supply of less than 1V was described by Belgian research centre imec at the recent IEDM conference. The device, created using thin film transistor technology (TFTs) on plastic film, is said to pave the way for such applications as item level RFID tagging, body area networks and environmental monitoring.
The 8bit transponder chip, which can run from a 0.55V supply, consumes 2.5µW. At this level, says imec, a AAA battery could power the chip for more than 20 years. Because it is created on a 25µm foil, the device addresses such issues as cost and mechanical flexibility, thinness and robustness. It can also be embedded in security documents, smart packaging, disposable electronics or textiles.
The research has been done within the Holst Centre's industrial affiliation programme on thin film electronics, with support from the EU through the COSMIC project.
Pictured is a foil with plastic transponder chips developed by imec in 2010.
Author
Graham Pitcher
Source: www.newelectronics.co.uk